Meet The Ref - Latics v Swansea - Kevin Friend

Tonights Carling Cup 4th Round tie between Wigan Athletic and Swansea City at the DW Stadium will be officiated by Leicestershire referee and postman Kevin Friend.

The 39 year old has been refereeing since he was just 13 and made the grade all the way to the top when on 20th September 2009 he took charge of the Premier League game between Wolves and Fulham.

Speaking last summer about his appointment to the select group of ref`s Friend said he was chuffed but also that it was a challenge, now what could he mean by that?

Well being a former postie he could be worrying that if he got the letters wrong when booking players he could end up with the sack, sorry, couldn`t resist.

Friend said: 'I'm chuffed to bits and really thrilled,'

'It is also a big challenge because it will be completely different to what I'm used to.

'There's a lot of pressure in the Premier League and there's a lot of money involved. I've been fourth official at all the big venues, but being out there in the middle will be a totally new experience.

'My promotion means I'm now full-time which allows me to concentrate solely on the football.'

Here`s hoping that tonight he performs a lot better than my postman does!!!



















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